Gina Trapani

Now that most airlines are charging passengers to check extra bags, it turns out if you're hauling a lot of luggage on your trip, you can save a few clams by shipping it instead. Wired's travel blog Autopia does the math.

Check two bags and you're out $40. That's what you'll pay to have FedEx throw your luggage around, but you'll pay $35 using UPS and $34 to let the post office deal with it. The savings really kick in if you're a clothes' horse or you bought every souvenir you laid eyes on. Airlines will nail you for up to $140 if you've got three pieces of luggage, but the post office will charge you $55. FedEx will get it there (or back) for $60.

Shipping your luggage does not work out in your favor if you're just bringing one piece of luggage. Also, timing your shipment and packing days beforehand to mail bags first is an inconvenience, so only use this one when you're planning to haul a whole lot of stuff.